As we celebrate international days like Self-Care Day and World Mental Health Day, we seek to shine a spotlight on activities that foster social connections and significantly enhance both physical and mental wellbeing. At DEUS EX MACHINA, we are dedicated to cultivating a nurturing environment where our Machinarians can shine, learn, and grow personally and professionally.

We are delighted and proud that one of our product managers, Anastasia Stamelou, elevates DEUS EX MACHINA not only as a valuable professional but also as a passionate expert in bowling. Anastasia is a certified bowling instructor, whose masterful guidance has amplified the team’s skills and fun in our bowling endeavors.

From paintbrushes to hiking boots, hobbies span a vast spectrum. Yet, among this diversity, bowling rolls to the top. Why? “It’s one of the coolest and most inclusive sports out there”, Anastasia declares.
So, how does bowling strike a perfect balance of fun and fitness for all?

Get Fit, Stay Healthy 🏋️‍♂️

• Exercise Made Fun: Bowling strengthens your muscles, especially your arms, shoulders, and legs.
• Heart-Pumping Action: Even though it’s low-impact, all that walking and ball-throwing gets your heart racing.
• Burn Calories: Knock down those pins and burn some calories.
• Boost Coordination: Improve your hand-eye coordination and motor skills.

Bowling Boosts Development 🚀

• Physical Growth: Stay fit and healthy with improved strength, flexibility, and coordination.
• Brain Boost: Sharpen your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Social Skills: Make new friends while improving teamwork and communication abilities.
• Emotional Wellbeing: Achieving personal goals in bowling can lead to increased confidence and happiness.

Feel Good Vibes 😊

• Make New Friends: Bowling alleys are fantastic places to socialize and meet new people.
• Stress Buster: Roll away your worries and let the game relax you.
• Team Spirit: Whether playing solo or with friends, you’ll learn the value of cooperation and fair play.
• Confidence Booster: Each strike and spare is a powerful dose of self-esteem.

Bowling for All Ages 

• Kids: A perfect match for your little ones. They can use bumpers and lighter balls to join the fun and develop their coordination and social skills.
• Teens and Adults: The perfect hangout spot for teens and adults, offering a mix of fun and good sportsmanship.
• Seniors: Older adults can enjoy bowling as it’s a low-impact exercise keeping them active and socially engaged.

Bowling for Everyone

• Physical Disabilities: Equipment like ball ramps and lighter balls make bowling accessible to wheelchair users and those with physical challenges.
• Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: Bowling provides a structured, fun activity that enhances social interaction and skill development.
• Sensory Impairments: Adaptations like tactile or auditory cues ensure that everyone can join in the fun.

Tips for beginners 

• Stretch Before You Bowl: Lightly stretch your arms, shoulders, and legs. A short warm-up prevents injuries and improves flexibility.
• Choose the Right Ball: Pick a ball weighing about 10% of your body weight, ideally between 5-7 kg. Ensure the finger holes snugly fit for control.
• Perfect Your Posture: Stand upright with knees slightly bent, feet shoulder-width apart. Keep your arm relaxed and your non-bowling arm extended for balance. Release the ball with your palm facing up.

Master the Four-Step Approach*: Start with your dominant foot and take 4 steps:

1. 1. First step: Swing the ball at the same time as you take the first step.
   2. Second step: During the downswing, the opposite arm goes out to the side for balance.
   3. Third step: The ball continues into the backswing and reaches the top of the backswing.
   4. Fourth step: As the ball swings forward, the ball-side leg moves behind the bowler with the foot rolling on its side. Release the ball as it passes the ankle of the slide foot.

Did you know?

Bowling dates back to ancient Egypt, with evidence of the game found in tombs dating as far back as 3200 BC.

The world record for the fastest strike is held by Sean Rash, who bowled at a speed of 45 mph (72 km/h) in 2013.

Thrive in Mind, Body, and Spirit

Self-care is crucial for our wellbeing and development. Partaking in activities like bowling not only provides an opportunity for fun but also fosters interpersonal bonds and bolsters our mental health. Seize the opportunity to flourish both individually and professionally.

Thank you, Anastasia, for sharing your love for bowling and adding immense value to our culture of support and growth. 

Now it’s your turn to gather your friends and family, head to your nearest bowling alley, and enjoy the remarkable benefits of bowling! 

*Source bowl.com